Divine New York: Discovering the Art & Architecture of Manhattan’s Sacred Spaces

Manhattan is home to a remarkably diverse range of houses of worship, many of them several hundred years old, yet few see beyond the often-unassuming façades except the local faithful.

A delight for history and design enthusiasts, Divine New York: Inside the Historic Churches and Synagogues of Manhattan (Abbeville Press) takes us on an exclusive tour through the uplifting interiors of 65 sacred sites from Lower to Upper Manhattan. Rabbi Peter J. Rubinstein, Emeritus Director of the Jewish Community and the Bronfman Center for Jewish Life, will moderate a conversation with photographer Michael L. Horowitz and author Elizabeth Anne Hartman in which they share what makes these sites aesthetically, architecturally, and historically notable. They will also be joined by award-winning architect, Alexander Gorlin, to discuss the intersections of architecture and religion, including the restoration and rebuilding of historic sites.

Michael Horowitz started photographing houses of worship in Manhattan in 1994 during a visit to the Eldridge Street Synagogue on the Lower East Side, which is now a National Historic Landmark. His superb photographs capture the stunning stained-glass windows, paintings, vaulted ceilings, and architectural details in the many artistic styles represented. Hartman’s text illuminates how these sacred edifices reflect the hopes and aspirations of the numerous different communities that helped build the metropolis. Offering a new perspective on the city, this visually arresting event will share how feats of architecture and engineering led to buildings of reverence and beauty.

The event will be introduced by Columbia University Professor and “Reel Pieces” Moderator Annette Insdorf.